Missouri Sports Hall of Fame welcomes tennis legend Jean Larrick

Renowned tennis coach and Springfield-area legend Jean Larrick was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame on Feb. 2. Larrick, among 19 other notable Missouri athletes, coaches and directors, was recognized for her achievements advancing the sport of tennis.

“It’s the biggest honor in our state," Larrick said. “You know, you don’t set out to do anything like that. It just happens through work, I guess, and perseverance.”

Larrick, a 2022 USTA Missouri Valley Hall of Fame inductee, spent 12 years as head pro at Cooper Tennis Complex and found her calling through teaching. While she’s known for working with high-level junior players, she really specializes in coaching beginners. She has a way of teaching new players what it means to play tennis.

“It’s all about capturing their interest,” she said. “And then they have to internalize it and turn it into its smallest form. It’s not easy, sport.”

Her ability to connect with her students, as well as her intricate knowledge of the physical and mental game, is what makes her such a good coach. And, at 82, she remains committed to tennis education. She still gives lessons and clinics at Cooper on Mondays through Thursdays.

Larrick’s illustrious playing career began at 10 years old when she played for the first time with a friend. Her curiosity was immediately piqued, and it was a wrap from there. But as she reflects on her career, Larrick’s mother remains an inspirational figure for her.

“She was pretty tough, you know. It’s not easy to raise five kids single-handedly,” Larrick said. “But she made sure we got into sports and was adamant about education. She kind of got us going.”

Originally from Decatur, Ill., Larrick spent one year playing at Millikin University before playing at Missouri State University, winning countless awards and titles during the course of her collegiate career. After graduation she stayed in the Springfield area, winning numerous regional and national tournaments.

And when asked about what’s in store for the next few years, Larrick said she’s just taking it day by day.

“Who knows?” she said. “You know, I feel like I’m in pretty good shape. Today I took a pilates class and played a couple hours of pickleball. And took a nap. I feel like that’s a pretty good day.”

To read a USTA Missouri feature story on Jean Larrick’s induction into the Springfield Area Sports Hall of Fame, click here.